Lakers guard Kobe Bryant will miss 6-9 months of action with a third-degree tear of his Achilles, the Los Angeles Times reports. Bryant underwent successful surgery for the Achilles on Saturday and the team believes there is a chance he can be ready for the beginning of next season, according to trainer Gary Vitti. "It's a third-degree tear," Vitti said. "It's gone. Completely torn."
Analysis: This is devastating news for Bryant, who knew Friday night what was coming. He is done for the season and possibly his career. Bryant sent out a Facebook rant early Saturday morning in which he vowed to work hard to return. He could conceivably be back to start the year next year, so Fantasy owners will want to keep monitoring the situation.